Blockbuster Trade Buzz: Vancouver Canucks Target Mason McTavish in Multi-Piece Proposal with Anaheim Ducks
In a development that’s ignited major buzz across the NHL landscape, a new trade proposal has surfaced linking the Vancouver Canucks to one of the Anaheim Ducks’ brightest young stars—Mason McTavish. The report, which emerged amid growing speculation over Vancouver’s offseason strategies, positions McTavish as the centerpiece of a potential blockbuster deal between the two Pacific Division clubs. While still unconfirmed, the proposed framework is already drawing strong reactions from fans, analysts, and insiders alike.
The Canucks, under the stewardship of general manager Patrik Allvin and president of hockey operations Jim Rutherford, have made it clear they’re not content with standing pat this offseason. In fact, both executives have been working relentlessly behind the scenes to plug the remaining holes in the team’s roster following a season that saw Vancouver come tantalizingly close to a deeper playoff run. Their objective is clear: transform the Canucks from a postseason team into a legitimate Stanley Cup contender.
One of the key ways to achieve that, according to sources, would be to add a top-six forward who brings grit, scoring ability, and long-term upside. Enter McTavish.
At just 21 years old, McTavish is already seen as a potential franchise cornerstone. Drafted third overall by the Ducks in 2021, he’s shown flashes of elite potential through his early seasons, combining physicality with scoring touch and impressive hockey IQ. With Anaheim still in the midst of a rebuild, however, and Vancouver in win-now mode, the timing might be right for a trade that helps both teams pursue their goals.
The reported proposal is said to be multi-faceted, including several moving parts from both sides. While exact names have not been officially confirmed, speculation suggests the Canucks are willing to part with a package that could include high draft picks, prospects, and possibly a roster player to land McTavish. The idea is to build a compelling enough offer that Anaheim would consider letting go of a player many believe could be central to their long-term plans.
Meanwhile, Vancouver’s front office has already taken steps to create the flexibility required to make a deal of this magnitude. In a surprising move, they recently traded fan-favorite Dakota Joshua to the Toronto Maple Leafs. The deal, which caught many supporters off guard, was primarily a cap-clearing maneuver, designed to free up space and make room for a significant acquisition—possibly someone like McTavish.
Joshua’s departure, while tough from an emotional standpoint, signals the seriousness with which the Canucks are approaching this offseason. Allvin and Rutherford are reportedly targeting a major addition via trade or free agency, and shedding salary was a necessary step in that process. Though Joshua brought size and energy to the lineup, the Canucks appear to be prioritizing players who can make an even greater impact offensively and in high-leverage situations.
The pursuit of McTavish makes strategic sense for Vancouver on multiple levels. First, he aligns perfectly with the Canucks’ current competitive window. With players like Elias Pettersson, Quinn Hughes, and Thatcher Demko in their prime, adding another young yet proven forward could help solidify the team’s core for years to come.
Second, McTavish’s style of play fits the mold that head coach Rick Tocchet prefers. He’s aggressive on the forecheck, responsible defensively, and brings a playoff-style edge that Vancouver could use more of. Despite his youth, McTavish has already demonstrated leadership qualities and a willingness to take on tough minutes, often matching up against top opposition during his time in Anaheim.
From Anaheim’s perspective, a deal involving McTavish would only make sense if the return was overwhelming. The Ducks are building around a strong group of young talent, including Trevor Zegras, Leo Carlsson, and Jamie Drysdale. Losing McTavish would be a blow, but if the Canucks are willing to part with premium assets—such as a 2025 first-round pick, top prospects like Jonathan Lekkerimäki or Tom Willander, or a controllable NHL-ready forward—it could entice Anaheim to listen.
Some insiders believe Vancouver is more than willing to go all-in. With pressure mounting to take the next step, and with their core players entering the heart of their careers, the time for a bold move could be now. The Canucks have a decent pipeline of young players, and while giving up top prospects is always risky, the chance to land a player of McTavish’s caliber may be worth it.
It’s important to note that this trade idea is still a proposal, not a finalized agreement. However, that hasn’t stopped fans from debating its merits across social media and sports talk shows. For Canucks supporters, the possibility of seeing McTavish skate alongside Pettersson or J.T. Miller is a tantalizing one. For Ducks fans, the thought of giving up a prized young forward is understandably met with caution.
Adding to the intrigue is the fact that Vancouver has been linked to several high-profile targets in recent weeks. Allvin and Rutherford have been aggressive in exploring both the trade and free-agent markets, and insiders suggest the team is prioritizing players under 25 who can contribute immediately but still have room to grow. McTavish checks every one of those boxes.
Whether the proposed deal materializes or not, one thing is certain: the Vancouver Canucks are not standing still. After a season that reignited hope within the fan base, management appears ready to double down and push even harder toward championship contention.
In that context, a blockbuster trade for Mason McTavish could be the defining move of the offseason—a swing-for-the-fences deal that could reshape the team’s identity and trajectory. With cap space created, trade assets on the table, and urgency in the air, the Canucks appear poised to make a major splash.
For now, all eyes remain on Patrik Allvin and Jim Rutherford. If they can pull off this bold acquisition, it might just be the move that launches Vancouver into the NHL’s elite.
